FR DAVID WRITES
Today, on the Third Sunday of Lent, we hear the magnificent Gospel passage about the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. In her encounter with Christ, the woman comes to faith. She then spreads the message about Jesus to everyone she knows. Ultimately, they all come to believe in Christ whom they declare, 'the Saviour of the world.' May our faith also spread among others so that they too might come to believe and be saved.
OFFICIAL ADVICE TO PARISHES: STAGE 2
On Monday we were advised by the diocese that we have moved to stage 2 of our precautions. These steps require that we make some further changes to our routine, to help us look after each other. What I said about a common sense approach still applies: we should not come to church if we are ill or have any symptoms; to wash our hands with soap and hot water (we have a very limited supply of hand sanitiser now). Please take care not to accidentally drop tissues or other litter in church.
- Holy Communion on the tongue is now suspended. I understand that this will be a hardship for some so I ask for your patience and cooperation in this respect.
- Holy Communion from the chalice is suspended. Please remember that we receive the entire Christ in the sacred host: body, blood, soul and divinity.
- The sign of peace is now omitted.
- The offertory procession is also suspended. For the collection, rather than passing the bags around, a retiring collection will be taken on the way out of church.
- We are asked not to use shared Mass books and hymn books. Please take this newsletter with you and do not leave it here.
- If you would like to go into the hall after Mass to see others please do so. As this is not a ‘large gathering’ it can continue for the time being until we are advised otherwise.
The parish team is actively planning for the possible implementation of stage 3 but we have not reached this stage yet. As Dean, I also held a useful meeting with priests and staff of the deanery on Tuesday. We hope these measures will not become a cause of anxiety and that we are able to continue our Lenten journey in the joyful and prayerful manner so characteristic of God’s people in our parish. May God bless us all. Fr David.
LIBBY BIBERIAN RIP
Last week I celebrated the last sacraments with Libby after she was taken seriously ill. Sadly, Libby died on Tuesday. I know this comes as a big shock and sadness for her family and the whole parish and the wider community. A great many people will sorely miss her and her wonderful goodness. Please pray for her, and please keep her family in your prayers. Fr David.
PARTICIPATING IN MASS AT HOME
If you cannot come to church, you can follow our celebrations through the internet feed. You can access this through our website (see front page) or through Church Services TV. (You can also hear Mass on the phone but we do need your details first in order to arrange this). You can also make an act of spiritual communion: My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love you above all things, and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from your loving presence. Amen.'
LET'S NOT FORGET THE VULNERABLE
In the current climate, it is important that we do not forget the vulnerable, including the elderly who could become isolated, or those who rely on food banks. We can continue to look out for our neighbours and those in need of help. Equally, let's remember our Gospel values which we seek to renew in Lent. Our Lenten collection of tins and toiletries for Finchley Food Bank is still open at the back of church - please be as generous as you can.
EASTER COLLECTION
The Easter collection is now open. You can use the envelope from your box, or an Easter envelope from the church porch, or any envelope if you simply write ‘Easter collection’ on it—the main thing is that we know what you are giving it for. Many thanks for your generosity towards our parish!
CHRISTINA PHELAN (Keane) RIP
Requiem Mass Friday 20th March at 10am. May she rest in peace.
SEAMUS KEANE RIP
Requiem Mass Friday 20th March at 10am. May he rest in peace.
DORIS D’SOUZA RIP
Requiem Mass Monday 23rd March at 10am. May she rest in peace.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE CATHOLIC FAITH?
The next talk will be on Tuesday 17th March at 7.45 pm in the Small Hall. This week’s theme will continue from last weeks on ‘The Church’.
CONFIRMATION
Candidates are reminded of their retreat on Saturday, 21st March, 11am—5pm followed by Mass at 6.30pm.
ADVANCED FAIR TRADE EASTER EGG COLLECTION TODAY
In case anyone is in isolation on Palm Sunday, Fair Trade Easter Egg orders can be collected today in the hall lobby. Several unordered ones from the boxes of six are also on sale. It may be wise to buy now.